Former captain of Nigeria’s under17s, Wilson Oruma, has declared that he will hang up his boots from active football.

After playing professional football for over 17 years, 33-year-old Oruma explained that he feels that now is the right time to quit the game that has seen him play for Nigeria’s under17s, under23s and seniors.

“I thank God for my career and everything. Also, I thank everyone that has been there during the tough and easy times in my career,” said the former Bendel Insurance man.

Oruma said he decided to call time on his career since he has achieved so much from the game.

The former Nigerian midfielder added that he has no regrets when he looks back at his career of 17 years.

“I have achieved so much in the game by the grace of God. I have won the Under17 World Cup, I have played at the World Cup in 1998 with the senior team and scored a goal. Also, I have played at the Nations Cup.

“So, when I look back at those achievements I don’t think I have any regret. I am only grateful to God that I have ended my career in good health,” said Oruma.

However, Oruma said he has not thought of becoming a coach after his playing career.

The retired player began his professional career at Invincible Leopard in Warri before he was snapped up by Bendel Insurance of Benin.

Oruma captained Nigeria’s under17s to winning the 1993 Fifa Under17 World Cup and also won the gold medal of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta with the under23s.

He is also capped 19 times for Nigeria’s seniors while he has played for 10 clubs in his 17-year-old career.